"Whither away, Miss Nina?"
He had such a kind, honest face, one of those you feel instinctively you can trust.
"I am going to see Mrs. Ross."
"All by yourself? Pardon me, does the Colonel know of your intention?"
"Oh, yes—that is, I don't know; father was out when I left, but Phoebe saw me go, and I had to listen to lectures yards long. I hope," I added, saucily, "that I shall not have to listen to any more."
His boyish face had grown quite grave, his honest eyes had a look of apprehension in them, but he spoke lightly.
"I see you are a very determined young lady, but perhaps you will allow me to accompany you so far; then, when I have seen you safe in Mrs. Ross's hands, I can make my report to the Colonel and set his mind at rest."
"Oh, you can come if you like," I replied, grandly. I was accustomed to have a great deal of attention; indeed, I could not have received much more had I been a little princess. "One would think I was the most precious thing in the world."
"Well, are you not?" he asked, gravely.
"It depends what precious means," I replied, sapiently. "If it means very good, I am afraid I am not that—at least, not half so good as Cicely."